Reigning FIA world champion co-driver Phil Mills has received an award from the Welsh government in recognition of his sporting achievements for Wales.

Phil, who was born in Newtown and has lived in Wales all his life, was presented with the trophy on Monday 29 March at a ceremony held in the Welsh Assembly Government buildings in Cardiff, the host city of Rally GB.

Welsh Assembly minister for economic development, Andrew Davies, made the presentation and outlined some of the benefits that Wales had received thanks to the visiting WRC competition and Phil's profile as a top international sportsman.

Mr Davies said: "Showing people what we have to offer in Wales - whether as tourists, business people or students - is a key part of our Economic Development Strategy - A Winning Wales. Those of us who are already here know Wales is a great place to live, work and study. The rally is playing a major role in spreading that message, but we're also very proud of Phil's personal accomplishment, and it's a pleasure to be able to mark it in this way."

After accepting the award, Phil was invited to join Mr Davies and the Welsh First Minister Rhodri Morgan for Lunch in the Welsh Parliament building. "As a Welshman, receiving this award really means a lot to me," said Phil. "It was a special moment for me to meet Andrew Davies and collect the award, a real honour and something that made me feel proud to be Welsh. The trophy itself is breathtaking, definitely the most ornate one I've ever received, it's hand carved from Welsh slate and must have taken weeks and weeks of work to finish, it's absolutely stunning."
"I've never hidden my enthusiasm for Wales, and even though I'm lucky enough to travel all over the world with Subaru, I'm always happy to return home."


Photo caption: Andrew Davies, Welsh Minister for Economic Development presents Phil Mills with a slate trophy of a Welsh dragon in recognition of his championship winning efforts in 2003.